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by George Ella Lyon (Author), Stephanie Anderson (Illustrator)
In poetic form, Lyon tells the story of a young girl, Sharonda, and her mother who have a Habitat for Humanity house built for them. The story moves from them living in a tiny room together in her Aunt Janey’s apartment and through the process of the home being built and completed. Beginning with the empty lot and hope, the story is built as sturdily and lovingly as the home itself.
Lyon’s poetry does not rhyme and for most children will not read as a poem, but it is. Filled with imagery, captured moments and truth it is a powerful message of community. Anderson’s illustrations add so much to this book. They too are real, concrete and yet elevated. Her paintings have unique perspectives, strong emotions and great composition that allow for deep colors.
A beautiful picture book that really speaks to the power of hope, community, and family.
“Lyon's reputation for lyrical writing is well established, and the pleasing cadences in this moving story do not disappoint. … [An] author's note explains Lyon's participation with Habitat for Humanity in Kentucky, and the experience lends particular voices and authentic material to portray the effect of a caring community and the people who manipulate the power tools.”
- School Library Journal
“Lyon masterfully tells Sharonda's story, unfurling the child's disbelief that her dream is coming true, the hard work and time volunteers contribute, Sharonda's excitement as she sees the house being constructed, her anticipation of sleeping there and the joy and peace she feels when she and her mother walk through the door for the first time. … A heartfelt, welcome addition to any collection … ”
- Kirkus Reviews
George Ella Lyon has written many books for young readers including the award-winning picture book Mother to Tigers, No Dessert Forever!, both illustrated by Peter Catalanotto and Trucks Roll! illustrated by Craig Frazier. Her novel, Sonny's House of Spies, earned two starred reviews and was nominated for a Kentucky Bluegrass Award. George Ella lives in Lexington, Kentucky with her family.
Stephanie Anderson lives in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Her first picture book was Weaving the Rainbow, by George Ella Lyon, in which her art was praised by Kirkus Reviews as "exquisite."
Hardcover, Ages 4 - 8
ISBN: 0689875894
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